Sarah Pichardo Thanksgiving is supposed to be about food, family, and gratitude, but it’s easy to get distracted. Between snapping pics of your plate, scrolling through Black Friday deals, and checking TikTok while your aunt tells that same story again, our phones end up stealing way too much of the day.
That’s where a Thanksgiving digital detox comes in. Don’t worry, I’m not saying you have to throw your phone in the mashed potatoes. But this holiday might be the perfect chance to hit pause on the endless scrolling and focus on what’s right in front of you.
Why Unplugging Matters
- Real connection > screen time. When was the last time you had a full conversation without glancing at your phone? Thanksgiving is the perfect excuse to practice.
- Less stress. Doomscrolling and endless notifications add noise. A detox makes space for calm.
- Be present. The pumpkin pie might not last long, but memories made around the table will.
- Rediscover small joys. There’s something grounding about listening to your grandma’s laugh or actually tasting the pie instead of photographing it.
Simple Ways to Do a Thanksgiving Digital Detox
- Create a “phone basket.” Have everyone drop their phone in before dinner. Whoever sneaks theirs first does the dishes.
- Set boundaries. Announce: “I’ll check my phone after dessert,” then stick to it.
- Replace scrolling with something fun. Play a board game, share embarrassing old photos, or start a gratitude circle.
- Document differently. Want to remember the day? Take a few Polaroids or write down funny one-liners instead of relying on Instagram stories.
- Try a group walk. Bundle up and take a post-dinner stroll together. It’s a great way to digest (literally) and connect without screens.
The Real Gift of Unplugging
A digital detox doesn’t mean ignoring your phone forever. It just means reclaiming a few hours of your holiday for what really matters—connection, laughter, and maybe a second slice of pie.
This Thanksgiving, give yourself the gift of being fully present. Trust me—TikTok will still be there tomorrow.
